Snapshot: You never know what you'll be greeted with when you enter the PHX Lounge. It might be a crooning jazz singer, a fashion show or a photo shoot of a local musician. If you're wondering what the PHX stands for, it's not the Phoenix airport code. It's the Priest Holmes Experience. The luxe new venue — brainchild of retired NFL running back and S.A. native Holmes — is the opposite of a sports bar. The location, which opened in October, is tucked away in the shopping center behind Soluna Cocina Mexicana off Broadway.

Behind the bar: One of the centerpieces is a square bar surrounded by tall chairs. If you get tired of beer and wine, try one of the martinis, such as the subtly sweet $9 Belle, coconut rum and melon liqueur, or the decadent $9 s'mores concoction with a crushed graham cracker rim and a toasted marshmallow garnish. Get a deal during the 5-7 p.m. happy hour and 9-11 p.m. reverse happy hour Wednesday-Friday.

Who goes there: Catering to a hip professional crowd, the lounge recommends “casual, but sharp attire.”

Soundtrack: This lounge likes to keep it subtle so don't expect pounding beats. Count on a combination of jazz and R&B that promotes conversation rather than hinders it.